Social Security Disability Benefits and Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you are severely limited in your work and living activities due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. In order for your claim to be approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA), you will be required to prove that you cannot work regularly.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis and have been denied SSD benefits, a Phoenix Social Security Disability lawyer at Dayes Law Firm PC can assist you. We have years of experienced guiding our clients through the appeals process to ensure they successfully get the benefits they need.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where a persons immune system attacks their own joints, not just targeting foreign viruses and bacteria. It usually impacts hand and feet joints and the inflammation and swelling can be extremely painful. The effects of this chronic illness may include progressing deformity of joints and erosion of bones. Day to day activities like grasping objects or performing tasks may be challenging or even impossible for someone with RA.

Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects people 40 to 60 years of age, women, people with RA in their family history, and smokers. When it comes to receiving SSD benefits, almost one-third of beneficiaries have a type of musculoskeletal condition like a severe arthritis, a back injury or another form of connective tissue or skeletal condition.

For rheumatoid arthritis, there is a certain way to qualify for SSD benefits. You must meet the specific criteria spelled out in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments. The criteria lists severe limitations like difficulty walking and flares that are chronic, entailing symptoms like fever and fatigue. Medical documentation that backs up your claim is necessary like hospital visits, lab results and doctors records.

Call 1-800-503-2000 to find out how you can receive a free consultation.